Opodo travel news

Goa's stunning natural beauty and incredible beaches appear to be doing their bit to attract travellers, with the Indian state reporting a leap of around 12 per cent in the number of visitors last year.

Indeed, both international and domestic figures were up by 12.47 per cent and 9.27 per cent respectively, with the overall growth being referred to as a record high for the holiday destination.

However, the jump is apparently in sync with the expectations of Goa Tourism, which reported that an aggressive advertising campaign and attempts to build a world-class infrastructure have done their bit to attract people from all over the world.

Among the initiatives, programmes and projects designed to boost tourism, perhaps the new airport terminal stands out as the most ambitious. It is set to open later this year, following tests to ensure it is compliant with international standards.

Shri Dilip Parulekar, minister for tourism, Goa, said: "This is a great way to begin the New Year for us. We are more than thrilled to announce these figures and this only proves that Goa continues to be the destination of choice for people from all across the world.

"At the same time, these numbers also serve as a reminder for us to constantly strive and keep the infrastructure … on par with international standards," she added.

The Indian state will continue to drive for success in its ever developing tourism industry, with 2014 set to include a number of tourist-friendly initiatives such as a beach cleaning programme that will hopefully see the shores of Goa listed as some of the cleanest in south-east Asia.

Those looking to travel to Goa are advised to do so during Carnival 2014 in March, which is one of the biggest celebrations in the state's calendar.